Events

Charity Golf Tournament Fundraiser – Join Us for a Day of Golf & Giving Back!

📍 Location: Maldon Golf Club
📅 Date: Friday 5th September 2025
⏰ Tee-Off Time: 10:00 AM (Check-in from 8:30 AM)
💷 Entry Fee: £75 per person

Get ready for an incredible day of golf, connection, and community impact! Heads2Minds and Ending Life’s Taboo are teaming up to host a Charity Golf Tournament Fundraiser at the beautiful Maldon Golf Club – and you’re invited.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just enjoy the game, this is your chance to enjoy a fun-filled day while supporting vital mental health and suicide prevention causes.

🏌️‍♀️ What’s Included:

  • ☕ Tea, coffee & bacon rolls on arrival

  • 🍽️ Delicious two-course lunch

  • 🎁 Exciting prize raffle

  • ⛳ Competitions like “Nearest to the Pin” and “Beat the Pro”

🎟️ How to Join:

  • Registration fee: £75 per person

  • Check-in begins from 8:30 AM

  • Tee-off at 10:00 AM

This is more than just a game of golf – it’s a chance to connect, raise awareness, and make a real difference. All proceeds go toward supporting mental health initiatives and breaking the stigma around suicide.

📲 Register HERE

Or visit:
🌐 heads2minds.co.uk
🌐 endinglifestaboo.com

Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a day on the green while giving back. Rally your team, grab your clubs, and help us create positive change – one swing at a time.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News

Carers Voices: Supporting Unpaid Carers Across Essex – June 2025 Update

The Carers Voices team continues to expand its reach across Essex, listening to unpaid carers and offering a vital platform for their experiences to be heard and valued. From supporting carers with employment struggles to offering training and social opportunities, we’re building a stronger, more connected network for carers across the county.


Upcoming Carers Voices Events

Come and meet us in person at one of our summer engagement events:

  • Healthier Habits Hub
    📅 Thursday, 3rd July | 🕘 9am–4pm
    📍 The Lounge, Esplanade Hall, Harwich CO12 3ES

  • Basildon Hospital Atrium
    📅 Monday, 7th July | 🕙 10am–2pm

  • Broomfield Hospital Atrium
    📅 Monday, 14th July | 🕙 10am–2pm

  • Colchester Carnival
    📅 Saturday, 19th July | 🕘 9am–5pm

  • Billericay Town FC Fella’s Fair
    📅 Saturday, 19th July | 🕚 11am–5:30pm
    📍 New Lodge, CM12 9SA | Free entry before 1pm

  • Colchester Hospital Atrium
    📅 Thursday, 24th July | 🕙 10am–2pm

  • Warley Family Fun Day
    📅 Friday, 1st July | 🕘 9am–5pm
    📍 Warley Playing Fields, CM13 3AZ

  • Harlow Care Weekender
    📅 Sunday, 3rd August | 🕛 12pm–5pm
    📍 Playhouse Square, Harlow


Share Your Experience: Carers and Employment

Balancing work and caring responsibilities is one of the biggest challenges faced by unpaid carers. Many experience real barriers in the workplace.

We’re currently running a live survey to gather insights.
👉 Take the survey here

Your feedback helps shape better services and support.

Download the newsletter HERE. 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News

Baby Loss in the Workplace: Time for Change

Baby Loss in the Workplace: Time for Change 💼

1 in 4 pregnancies ends in loss, yet only 10% of UK employees say their workplace has a baby loss or miscarriage policy. Even more concerning: over 20% report receiving no support at all from their employer.

As of 2024:

🔹 Only 36% of organisations have a pregnancy loss policy

🔹 Just 24% of leaders say employees feel comfortable speaking about it

🔹 38,000 employees have been trained in bereavement support by Sands — a great start, but we need more

🔹 In sectors like private equity, only 7% have a written policy in place

🔹 NHS England has advised trusts to offer 10 days’ paid miscarriage leave — a step in the right direction

This isn’t just about policy — it’s about compassion, culture, and leadership. Employers must do better in supporting colleagues through unimaginable loss.

👉 If your organisation hasn’t yet implemented baby loss training or support policies, now is the time.

Our next workplace training session takes place on 10th October in Witham and is only £60 per person!

To book email support@littlewingsofhope.co.uk

Let’s make the workplace a kinder place. One where grief is met with support, not silence.

 

Organised by Little Wings of Hope – Baby Loss Charity 

 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Training

How Compassionate Community Meetups are making a difference in Colchester…

We hope you can join us for our next Meetup on Friday 4h July, hosted by Compassionate Community Champions  Thompson Smith & Puxon, at their Stable Road premises, Colchester.

How Compassionate Community Meetups are making a difference in Colchester…

  • These monthly Compassionate Community Meetups are an opportunity to be part of a special group of people, places and projects who are helping build networks of support for others experiencing life’s biggest challenges.
  • Starting at 10am with a cuppa, Thompson Smith & Puxon and Essex Search & Rescue will be sharing why & how they are supporting local communities.
  • There will be an opportunity for further networking, sharing, and learning with other community ambassadors to 11am.
  • Our wellbeing walk will start at 11am for those who wish to join.

Organised by St Helena Hospice

 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities

Today (27th June) is National PTSD Awareness Day

PTSD affects people from all walks of life — veterans, survivors, emergency responders, and everyday people who’ve faced trauma.

On this important day, let’s raise awareness, show support, and make sure help is easy to find.

💻 At www.essexmap.co.uk, you can discover local mental health services, support groups, and community initiatives that offer a safe space for those affected by PTSD and other mental health challenges.

✨ Are you part of a group or service that supports people with PTSD in Essex?

List it on the Essex Map to reach more people who need you.

Together, we can help break the stigma and build a stronger, more supportive community. 💚

#PTSDawareness #MentalHealthMatters #EssexMap #CommunitySupport #YouAreNotAlone #PTSD

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News

Join Chelmsford Star Co-op to help clean up Central Park in Chelmsford…

Chelmsford Star Co-op is calling on volunteers to participate in the Big Co-op Clean Up at Central Park, Chelmsford. This community-driven event aims to bring together residents, families, and local groups to help keep our cherished green spaces clean and vibrant.

  • Date & Time: Friday 27th June 2025: 2pm – 3.30pm

  • LocationCentral Park, Chelmsford 

  • Meeting PointMeet at the gazebo at Bell Meadow CM2 0PD

Please wear sturdy footwear.

Volunteers will be provided with all necessary equipment, including litter pickers, gloves, high-visibility vests, and bin bags. Please bring your own if you can.

Why volunteer?

  • Make a Visible ImpactYour efforts will contribute to a cleaner, more inviting park for everyone to enjoy.

  • Community EngagementMeet like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference in Chelmsford.

Call 0800 254 0404 or email: Membership@chelmsfordstar.coop

Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or trying it for the first time, your contribution is valuable and appreciated. 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News

Take a Break with Dementia Adventure: Supported Holidays Across the UK

At Dementia Adventure, we believe that life doesn’t stop with a diagnosis. That’s why we offer 5-day supported breaks across the UK—giving people living with dementia and their caregivers the chance to relax, reconnect, and recharge.

What’s Included?

Our breaks are fully supported by a dedicated team of trained staff and volunteers. Here’s what you can expect:

  • All-Inclusive Care – All meals are freshly prepared for you.

  • Planned Day Trips – Explore beautiful locations and create lasting memories.

  • Time to Relax – Rest and recharge in a safe, welcoming environment.

The Benefits

Guests often experience:

  • Improved appetite

  • Better sleep

  • A brighter mood

Time away from routine in the right setting can make a big difference—for both the person living with dementia and their companion.

Need Help with Funding?

We understand that finances can be a concern. Talk to us—we’re here to help. Funding doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting the break you need.


Learn more or book your break today:

📞 Call us: 01245 237548
📧 Email: adventures@dementiaadventure.org
🌐 Visit: dementiaadventure.org

Dementia Adventure is a registered charity (CIO) in England & Wales: 1163163.
Dementia Adventure is a registered trademark.

Download our poster here

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities

Free counselling available for young people in Chelmsford, Basildon and Brentwood

Is a young person you work with struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating or body image concerns?

Renew Counselling and Training is now offering free specialist support for young people in Chelmsford, Basildon and Brentwood.

To find out more or make a referral, just mention “YP Re-Ed” when you get in touch.

📍 Learn more at: https://renew.org.uk/free-counselling-available-for-young-people-struggling-with-eating-disorders-or-body-image/

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Training

Volunteer at our Community Allotment in Saffron Walden…

Mind in West Essex are looking for people to volunteer, both as individuals and in small groups, at our Community Allotment in the Saffron Walden area!

Our vision is for local people to be involved in aspects of running the allotment – from planning, building beds and planting, to watering and ongoing maintenance.

Getting outdoors, moving more and learning new skills all have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, which is why we’re so passionate about this project.

We’ve cleared the space, replaced the fence so that it’s a safe place to go and built a shed. Now, we need your help to get the allotment up and running – we have beds to build, prepare and sow; a shed to waterproof; a planting schedule to create; ongoing maintenance to do and more.

If you are interested or want to find out more, please contact Lisa on 07511 178438 or email community@mindinwestessex.org.uk today!

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities

Supporting Carers Webinars

As part of Carers Week, Essex County Council are working with carers organisations to host webinars to highlight the importance of carer identification and early support offers available to carers. Your team may play a vital role in this. These webinars are aimed at all front-line practitioners and services working across Essex.

Support for young carers: Monday 9th June 10:00 – 10:30am
Young carers often balance their school and social lives with their caring duties and that can have a huge impact. The Essex Young Carers Service work with partner organisations to provide support to young carers in Essex to navigate school, work and life. This webinar by the Youth Service will cover the support available to young carers and where you as a professional can signpost/refer young carers.
Support for adult carers: Tuesday 10th June 10:00 – 10:30am
The physical and mental health of carers can be significantly impacted by the demands of their caring role, with many experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness, often leading to burnout and a decline in their overall well-being. This webinar by Action for Family Carers, Carers First, Essex Wellbeing Service and Adult Social Care Connects will give an overview of some of the organisations supporting carers across Essex so that you can be more confident in identifying carers and then signposting/referring to specialist support available.

Supporting carers of people with dementia: Wednesday 11th June 10:00-10:30am
Supporting dementia carers is crucial because they often experience significant stress, isolation, and emotional strain. When carers are well-supported, they can provide better care, feel better in themselves, and are more likely to continue caring. This webinar by Alzheimer’s Society will raise awareness of some of the challenges carers supporting people with dementia experience, along with examples of some of the key places you can refer/signpost carers too for support.

Advocacy support for carers: Thursday 12th June 11:30am – 12:00pm
Carers may not know what help to ask for, how to ask, or indeed who to ask. Services are available to support carers to understand their options, make informed choices and decisions about their caring role and be heard when they face a challenge or issue. This webinar by Voiceability will raise awareness of some of the challenges carers experience with themselves and/or those they care for not having their views heard, and provide information on how to access for carers you support who might need this service.

Employers support for carers: Friday 13th June 1 – 2pm
Supporting carers to continue providing care and to participate in everyday life through employment is in everyone’s best interest. Employers have a responsibility to develop an inclusive workplace where carers are enabled to work, recognised, respected and supported, which helps to retain valued members of staff. This webinar by Employers for Carers will cover things employers should consider to support carers in the workforce, including tools and resource templates available.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities